THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE FREE REFORMED
Transcription
THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE FREE REFORMED
VOLUME 63 Number 4 April 2016 EDITION THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE FREE REFORMED CHURCHES OF NORTH AMERICA TApril H E2016M ESSENGER • VOLUME 63 NUMBER 4 EDITOR: Rev. Cornelis (Neil) Pronk 655 Park Road N., Unit 29, Brantford, ON N3R 0A2 CANADA • T/F: 519 751-4470 E: [email protected] or [email protected] The Editor reports to the Synodical Publications Committee. All unsigned articles are by the Editor Assistant Editor Dr. Gerald M. Bilkes • E: [email protected] Committee Members Hans VanDoodewaard, Secretary P. O. Box 534, St. George, ON N0E 1N0 T. 519.414.0090 • E: [email protected] • Dr. Lawrence W. Bilkes • Dr. Gerald M. Bilkes • Rev. Joel Overduin • Rev. Jerrold Lewis • Rev. Robert VanDoodewaard • Mr. Herman DenHollander • Mr. John DenDekker, Treasurer • Rev. David Kranendonk SUBSCRIPTION RATE Canada & U.S.A. - $31.00 annually for individually mailed subscriptions. The Messenger is published 11 times per year (July & August issues are combined). SUBSCRIPTIONS/REMITTANCES Requests for subscriptions, all payments and inquiries regarding rates, invoices, and all remittances should be addressed to: THE MESSENGER c/o Janey Slingerland, Administrator 18 Chapala Cres. S.E., Calgary, AB T2X 3M4 CANADA T. 403 254-6591 • E: [email protected] ANNOUNCEMENTS/NOTICES All notices for family announcements, obituaries, anniversaries, and non-commercial advertisements for the May 2016 issue should reach the copy editor no later than Tuesday, April 12, 2016 and should be sent to: THE MESSENGER 655 Park Road North, Unit 29, Brantford, ON N3R 0A2 CANADA T/F: 519.751.4470 • E: [email protected] FOREIGN MISSIONS Keep in contact with your missionaries online: www.frcmissions.org Departmental Editor: Mr. Duane Rogers 14 Twaits Rd., Towaco, NJ T. 973.476.0713 • E: [email protected] OUTREACH Departmental Editor: Rev. Joel Overduin 60 Carmine Crescent, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3M5 T. 905.327.3844 • E: [email protected] FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR FOREIGN MISSIONS AND OUTREACH CAUSES SHOULD BE DIRECTED AS FOLLOWS: Foreign Missions Mr. William F. Laman, Treasurer All funds should be remitted to: Peter Luth, Financial Administrator R.R.7, Dresden, ON N0P 1M0 CANADA T. 519.397.4988 • E: [email protected] Radio Evangelism Banner of Truth Radio Broadcast Mr. John denDekker, Treasurer 16726 – 80th Avenue, Surrey, BC V4N 0G8 CANADA T. 604.576.8935 • E: [email protected] Home Missions Mr. Bert Marskamp, Treasurer 78 Windsor Dr., P.O. Box 126, St. George, ON N0E 1N0 CANADA • T. 519.448.1763 • E: [email protected] Refugee Fund James Van der Zwan, Treasurer 26829 – 33B Ave., Aldergrove, BC V4W 3G8 CANADA • T. 604.818.3423 • E: [email protected] Christian Ministry To Israel Mr. John Wilbrink, Treasurer 8 Weneil Drive, Freelton, ON L0R 1K0 CANADA T. 905.659.7413; E: [email protected] THE YOUTH MESSENGER This semi-annual publication for youth is under the direction of the Youth & Education Committee of the Free Reformed Churches of North America. Editors: Rev. Timothy Bergsma T. 519.354.3100; E: [email protected] Rev. Joel Overduin: T. 905-327-3844; E: [email protected] Read The Messenger on the Free Reformed website: www.frcna.org 2 april 2016 April M E D I TATI O N “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me” (John 12:32). T he cross of Jesus Christ stands at the centre of redemptive history. If you remove the cross from Christianity, the whole religion collapses in a heap. The Old Testament types and shadows would then be nothing more than an empty shell, entirely ineffective in producing the least spark of true religion in the worshipper, far less pointing the way whereby a sinner can be made right with God. Without the cross both the Old Testament prophesies and the New Testament writings could claim to be nothing more than “cunningly devised fables” (2 Peter 1:16). Notwithstanding the magnificence and eloquence of their writing, they too would prove entirely impotent in effecting any spiritual good. The cross of Jesus Christ, claiming to stand at the centre of redemptive history, is that great event upon which the Christian religion stands or falls. The Claims of the Cross The cross makes great claims for itself. It claims to show the real nature of sin in its most awful and heinous form. It makes the entirely exclusive claim to provide the one and only effective sacrifice for sins. It claims to make that great and eternal distinction between all mankind, in that all who believe shall be saved, while all that believe not will be damned (Mark 16:16). It stands to reason therefore that if the cross, with all its exclusive claims and eternal implications for life and death, is true, then it marks out Christianity as the only true religion. In so doing, every other system of religion is already condemned as a system of falsehood and lies. The truth of the cross is therefore no small or immaterial contention. When it makes the exclusive claim to provide the only way to life, then it necessarily follows that every other such claim is false. It is the truth of the cross therefore that provides the greatest apologetic, or the greatest “reason for the hope that is in us” (1 Peter 3:15). When once this truth is affirmed, every other religion receives a fatal blow. Below are three things that evidence the cross of Jesus Christ to be true and therefore, by implication, every other system of religion to be false. The Truth Evident in the Narrative of the Cross Firstly, the gospel narratives argue the truth of the cross. Here is a simple question with far-reaching implications: Was there a real person called Jesus Christ, who under the reign of Tiberius Caesar, was accused of blasphemy, and being found guilty, was condemned to CONTENTS THE TRUTH OF THE CROSS: The Greatest Apologetic 02 Meditation: The Truth of the Cross: The Great Apologetic 05 Church News By Rev. I. Macleod the death of the cross? The greatest evidence for an affirmative answer lies in the pages of Scripture. Divine providence has ensured that the accounts of the cross recorded in the gospel accounts remain with us with even more credibility than Aristotle’s Poetics or Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The fact that a few unlearned and illiterate fishermen gave up their trade to announce this most sublime, distinct, yet consistent account of the sufferings and death of the Son of God in our nature, argues the veracity of the cross. Most false religions make no attempt to deny the fact of the cross (Islam being one notable exception, claiming without a shred of evidence that a substitute was crucified in Jesus’ place). The Jews asked for His blood to be on them and their children (Matt. 27:25). Even secular Roman historians, such as Tacitus and Pliny, unsympathetic to the Christian religion, have affirmed this truth. The narrative of the cross is also shown to be true because it fully explains the Old Testament types and shadows. Who is the seed of the woman who will crush the serpent’s head? What explains the sacrifices of all the lambs without blemish? Of whom does Isaiah speak when he writes of the servantlamb who is lead to the slaughter? What does Daniel mean when he says, “Messiah shall be cut off but not for himself” (Dan. 9:26)? The cross of Jesus Christ alone gives both an intellectual and soulsatisfying explanation of how all these types, shadows and prophecies are fulfilled in the Person and work of Jesus Christ. That the cross would stand as the great and only answer to these many and diverse types, shadows and prophesies irrefutably argues its claim to infallible truth. When we think of the centrality of the cross of Jesus Christ in redemptive history and in relation to our eternal destiny, how thankful we should be for the Scriptures which make this great truth known. We can be thankful too that we live in the New Testament age. The LORD gave His people in the Old Testament sufficient light, but in the New Testament He has given the full noonday sun (see Heb. 1:13). How should this make us view the Bible? How would grasping this truth change how we use the Bible? 06 Editorial: Christ’s Ascension Into Heaven: Implications for Living the Christian Life 10 BIBLE STUDY: Studies in John (12) The Corn of Wheat 13 BOOK REVIEW: The Whole Christ 14 A GOODLY HERITAGE (25) 18 CAMPOUT/ FREEZEOUT By God’s Hand 24 Announcements The Truth Evident in the Need for the Cross Secondly, the fact that there is a deep and universal sense of the need of atonement argues for the truth of the cross. The cross shows sin in its most egregious form – so heinous that it requires nothing less than the death of the Son of God in our nature. In showing the real and heinous nature of sin, the cross therefore accounts for this universal sense of the need of atonement that registers in the conscience of all mankind. The religions of the Ancient Near East manifest a fear of displeasing the gods. Their barbaric human sacrifices and rituals are a futile and devilish attempt to appease the gods, but nevertheless evidence an accusing conscience that cries out for atonement. However, this question must come to us too. Have we felt our need of the cross of Jesus Christ? Most people would admit that they have sinned, or at least that they are “not perfect.” But when you stand april April 2016 2016 3 ME D ITATIO N beside the cross, it is there that you see human depravity in its horrid ugliness and as that infinitely evil thing which the LORD hates! When we stand beside the cross we come more to see sin as God sees it. This realization could crush a sinner under a sense of sin. Yet, wonderfully, the same cross that condemns sin also shows the God-appointed way to the forgiveness of sins. The Truth Evident in the Saving Power of the Cross Thirdly, the saving power of the cross argues for its truth. False religions evidence a sense of their need for sin to be dealt with, but none of them provide any adequate atonement. The great empires of Egypt, Babylon, Persia, Greece and Rome, with all their art and science, learning and sophistication, came and went, and only showed that “the world by wisdom knew not God” (1 Cor. 1:21). Even the God-appointed and approved Old Testament system of ceremonies and sacrifices were incapable of dealing with sin. The very repetition of the sacrifices argued their impotence to expiate sin. They taught the people the need to look to the one perfect sacrifice that would come in the fullness of time. That fullness of time came, and with it came the one sacrifice for sins that “put away sin” (Heb. 9:26). To those who have come to sense something of the heinous nature of their sin and their need Don’t discard used Christian literature or Bibles! CHRISTIAN SALVAGE MISSION “Worldwide Distribution of Evangelical Literature” 3 – 120 Lancing Drive, Hamilton, ON Canada L8W 3A1 Phone/Fax: 905-574-3334 • W: www.csmcanada.org E: [email protected] The mandate of Christian Salvage Mission is to gather Bibles and other evangelical Christian literature no longer needed from the shelves of people across Canada and ship it to Christians in third world countries who are less blessed than we are. “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost” John 6:12 4 April 2016 of atonement, the truth of the cross has a marvellous attraction. “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me” (John 12:32). Here is the greatest, most fundamental difference between biblical Christianity and every other system of religion – Christianity alone provides an effective atonement for sin. The Muslim Allah claims to be merciful, but he has no sacrifice for sin, Roman Catholicism masquerades as Christianity, but denies the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ in its Eucharist. Buddhism claims a way out of suffering, but has nothing that deals with sin; and atheism cannot account for sin or suffering, far less offer a way out of these things. But the poor sinner who believes in Jesus alone finds what answers the pangs of his conscience and gives security in light of an endless world – namely, “the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin” (1 John 1:7). The Saving Power of the Cross The greatest apologetic is the truth of the cross. Yet, we must ensure that this truth goes deeper than our intellects. We may have all the arguments for the truth of the cross and the Christian religion it represents and yet know nothing of its saving power. It would be an awful thing to go to a lost eternity with the knowledge of the cross indelibly etched into our minds. That is why we must seek “not only a certain knowledge,” but also “an assured confidence” that the salvation offered in the cross of Jesus Christ belongs to us by a true faith (see Heidelberg Catechism, Q/A 21). The cross of Jesus Christ is the only way to life. The truth of the cross proclaims its finality and exclusivity – “There remaineth no more sacrifice for sins” (Heb. 10:26). When the Holy Spirit of God applies the truth of the cross, this glorious provision of the Christian gospel, to a poor sinner, who receives it in true faith, then that sinner can proclaim the greatest apologetic to his or her fellow sinners – “I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures” (1 Cor. 15:3). Rev. Ian Macleod is a pastor of the Grand Rapids, Michigan congregation. Church News NIPISSING, ONTARIO CHURCH PLANT (Powassan (south of North Bay, Ontario, off Hwy. 11) Services are held every Sunday at 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM with a fellowship lunch in between, usually upstairs at the Powassan Sportsplex, 433 Main Street, Powassan. For up-to-date information check online at www.nipissingfrc.com or contact Pastor Van Doodewaard, 604 Lindquist Line, Powassan, ON P0H 1Z0; T. 705-724-5070; E: [email protected] Please check website for up-to-date service location. P H EACE AVEN ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE At our New Day Program Location “The Farm” Saturday, May 14, 2016, from 10am – 2pm 1996 4th Concession West. Troy, Ontario All are Welcome MINISTERIAL CALLS The Free Reformed Church of St. Thomas has extended a call to Rev. Eric Moerdyk of the Free Reformed of Monarch, Alberta to be its pastor. The Free Reformed Church of Hamilton, Ontario has extended a call to Rev. W.E. Klaver of the CGK of Scheveningen, The Netherlands, to be its pastor. ADDRESS CORRECTION: The complete and correct address for Cathie Atkinson, widow of Terry Atkinson, is: Via del Nestore 2, Marsciano, Perugia 06055, ITALY; Email: [email protected] HEALTH CONCERNS IN PASTORS’ FAMILIES: Recently Sue Koopman, spouse of Pastor John Koopman of Chilliwack, BC, underwent surgery for cancer. The surgery went well and she is now undergoing the usual prescribed treatments. Dr. L.W. Bilkes, emeritus pastor of Grand Rapids, Michigan had a major stroke for which he was hospitalized. Your prayers for recovery are requested. April 2016 P H EACE AVEN FREE REFORMED ASSOCIATION MEN’S BREAKFAST Monarch, Alberta - April 23, 2016 Bethel Free Reformed Church of Monarch is hosting a Men’s Breakfast on April 23, 2016. The theme will be Family Worship and the guest speaker will be Dr. J. Beeke. For further information, please contact [email protected] PEACE HAVEN Free Reformed Association in Brantford, Ontario operates two homes with assisted living in a Christian environment for persons with disabilities. In the Spring of 2016, one of the persons supported plans to move away from the area. For more information about either full-time residential care or regular part-time respite care, please contact Peace Haven Director, Margaret Heemskerk, email: [email protected] cell: 519-770-8816 or Secretary, Jorina Bouman, email: [email protected] SYNOD 2016 June 6 – 10 Meeting at the Dundas Free Reformed Church As the Calling Church for Synod 2016 we request that your submissions be sent to [email protected] no later than April 22, 2016. Also, please send your word documents in Microsoft Word (.doc) format, and financial in Excel Spreadsheet (.xls). Items submitted after the April 22nd deadline may not be included in the final publication, but upon adjudication, added to the agenda at Synod 2016. Adrian Slootmaker Clerk, Pompton Plains Free Reformed Church April 2016 5 CHRIST’S ASCENSION INTO HEAVEN: Implications for Living the Christian Life EDI TORIAL The Importance of Christ’s Ascension On May 5, we hope to commemorate our Saviour’s glorious ascension into heaven. This red letter day of the Church of Christ is not receiving much attention today. Compared with His incarnation, death and resurrection, the return of our Saviour to His heavenly home is largely ignored, even by many Bible believing Christians. It is at best viewed as an appendix to the Easter event. But that is a big mistake. The resurrection and ascension may be closely related, but the latter is important for its own sake as well. The ascension is important because it marks the second step in the exaltation of Christ, which began with His resurrection. His ministry on earth was now done. The price for sin had been paid; death and Satan had been conquered; and salvation was accomplished. Now the work of application could begin. His Spirit would be poured out upon the Church. The gospel would be preached to all nations. The risen and ascended Lord would direct the campaign for the evangelization of the world from His place of glory. He would rule the universe with all the power or authority that had been given Him in heaven and on earth (Matt. 28:18). Christ’s Presence in Heaven All orthodox Christians confess that Christ actually ascended into heaven. But not all agree on the exact manner in which He went there. Christ is everywhere present, but as man He is now confined to heaven where He is seated at his Father’s right hand. As the Heidelberg Catechism explains in Lord’s Day 18, “With respect to his human nature he is no more on earth, but with respect to his Godhead, majesty, grace and Spirit he is at no time absent from us.” The same Lord’s Day adds, Christ’s physical presence in heaven also means that we, His people, “have our flesh in heaven as a sure pledge that he, as the head, will also take up to himself, us, his members.” That is a tremendously comforting detail. Because Christ is in heaven, we who believe in Him, are there with Him. The apostle Paul writes to the Ephesian Christians in 6 april 2016 chapter 1:3 of his epistle, God has “blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.” And in chapter 2:5-6, he adds, “Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ…. And raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” Notice that in both passages, the verbs are in the past tense. The apostle is speaking of an already accomplished reality. Physically, we are obviously not in heaven yet. But positionally, we are there already. If we are believers, we are seated with Christ in heaven right now. How is that possible? Because of our spiritual union with Him. We are united with Christ through faith and therefore we entered heaven when He did. As believers, as members of His body, we already possess eternal life and all the blessings of heaven are ours in Jesus Christ, our ascended Lord and Saviour. We have the life of God in us and the rule of God over us. We experience the fruit of the Spirit, love, joy, peace, etc. (Gal. 5: 22), -- at least to some degree. We have become part of a new family, a new kind of community. We have been taken out of the kingdom of darkness and brought into the kingdom of light. No longer are we under the dominion of Satan, but under the dominion of God. ”Therefore if any man be in Christ,” Paul states, “he is a new creature; old things are past away; behold all things are become new” (2 Cor. 5:17). Christ, our Head, being in heaven in our nature, is a pledge or guarantee that we will join Him there some day. What a prospect that is! But what Paul writes here to the Ephesians goes beyond that. Heaven is not only our future home. We can experience heaven now already, while still in this world. We can experience heaven on earth right now. But do we? The Puritans loved to talk about heaven, but they stressed that only those will get there who now live heavenly lives. By that they meant we need to be heavenly minded. We need to be preoccupied with heaven and heavenly things. Abraham did that; and also other heroes of faith. We read of him that Abraham was a pilgrim living in tents, waiting for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God (Heb. 11:10). The Pilgrim Character of the Christian Life It was especially Calvin, the reformer of Geneva, who emphasized the pilgrim character of the Christian life. Although he agreed that the world offers many good things believers may enjoy, he was keenly aware of the danger of becoming too attached to worldly pleasures. Unlike many of his followers who later adopted a very positive view of the world and culture, Calvin’s assessment of the world and its pleasures was more realistic, given the fact that sin has ruined God’s creation. For him, the present life is for God’s people as a pilgrimage on which they are hastening towards the heavenly kingdom. “If we must simply pass through this world, there is no doubt we ought to use its good things in so far as they help rather than hinder our course” (Institutes, III,x,1, pp. 719720). Christians, he says, may enjoy luxuries, “for God created food and clothing not only for our necessity, but also for our delight and good cheer (Institutes, III, x, 2, p. 720). But he immediately cautions against abusing God’s gifts. “We must resist the lust of the flesh, which, unless it is kept in order, overflows without measure” (Institutes, III, x, 3, p.721). Calvin stresses the need for self-denial and cross-bearing as essential to salvation. Although a Christian may enjoy God’s creation gifts, he should never set his heart on the things of this world, but rather on things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God (Col. 3:1-3). The Christian’s real home is heaven and he must often meditate on the future life. As he does so, he must view this world with a measure of contempt. Then only do we rightly advance by the discipline of the cross, when we learn that this life, judged in itself, is troubled, turbulent, unhappy, in countless ways, and in no respect clearly happy; that all those things which are judged to be its goods are uncertain, fleeting, vain, and vitiated by many intermingled evils. From this, at the same time, we conclude that in this life we are to seek and hope for nothing but struggle; when we think of our crown, we are to raise our eyes to heaven. For this we must believe; that the mind is never seriously aroused to desire and ponder the life to come unless it is previously imbued with contempt for the present life. Indeed, there is no middle ground between these two: either the world must become worthless to us or hold us bound by intemperate love of it (Institutes III, ix, 1, 2. p. 713). Many Reformed people are critical of Calvin’s admittedly negative sounding assessment of the world and this life. But they do not understand, or perhaps do not want to understand, that he is comparing the present, sinful world with the state of perfection which believers will inherit at death. Life was very difficult in Calvin’s time, but is it any better today? Are we warranted to view the world more positively than he did? If anything, life today is even more troubled, turbulent and unhappy than in the sixteenth century, as we see the threat of terrorism, economic uncertainty and especially moral and religious decay. The great apostasy is upon us and Christianity is under attack as never before. Therefore, we have as much or even more reason to set our minds on things above, instead of below. But are we doing that? Are we resisting the evil one who goes about as a lion or as an angel of light, seeking to destroy us and our children? Are we weaning ourselves and our families from “the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life”? (1 John 2:16) Are we keeping eternity in view and preparing for life in heaven? True, Jesus said that He would prepare a place for His own in the house of His Father. But part of that preparation was to send His Spirit into our hearts to help us prepare for that place. Only grace can april 2016 7 E DI TO R I AL Continued... bring this about. It also requires human effort. It involves selfdenial, mortification, the putting to death of the old man and the quickening, the coming to life, of the new man in Christ. 25th Anniversary of the Association of Evangelical Christian Churches in Yakutsk The temperature was -40C. These are normal temperatures during the winter months. The four day celebration included early missionaries to the Yakutsk area. The association started one year before the fall of communism. The first wave of missionaries came to this remote region from Ukraine and Russian speaking countries. Christians from those countries had been imprisoned in the Gulag, while their families and churches back home were praying for them and the people in this region. So much has happened since the fall of communism when there were less than 10 Yakut believers. Today there are almost 600 Yakut believers, plus a greater number of Russian believers. Among the early missionaries was a Ukrainian dentist, Valentine Nikonenko, who has been supported by COAH for many years. Riko Viviers whom some of us have recently met was also present. In all, probably 25 individual workers through the years gave reports about their contributions to the church in Yakutia. Tom Moerdyk (left) attended this anniversary as a COAH board member. Riko Viviers (right) a missionary from Yakutsk. Phone: 888-844-2624 Website: coah.org Email: [email protected] RECYCLE YOUR GOOD USED BOOKS REFORMED BOOK SERVICES will thankfully receive your good used books, specifically books by Reformed authors. Contact Susan Keuning at 905.627.3910; F: 905.628.2896; E: [email protected] Thank you very much for the books that were donated! 8 april 2016 A Rewarding Life As difficult as such a life of struggling against sin is, the rewards are tremendous. People who seek the things that are above rather than the things below will find a kind of life that cannot be found anywhere in the world. That life, Christ, our Head, wants all the members of His body to enjoy. “I am come,” He said, “that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). If our citizenship is in heaven, can our hearts be anywhere else? Orthodox Jews all over the world never tire of saying to each other, “Next year in Jerusalem!” That’s where their hearts are, you see. Poor deluded people! To be so obsessed with a city that has long since lost its spiritual meaning and value! “Jerusalem which now is,” says Paul, “is in bondage with her children. But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all” (Gal. 4:25,26). The heavenly city, therefore, should be the object of our love and longing, mostly because He, Jesus, is there and He is anxiously waiting to be joined by all for whom He laid down His life. “Father,” He prayed shortly before His ascension, “I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world” (John 17:24). As we celebrate our Lord’s ascension, let this be our prayer: O for a closer walk with God, A calm and heavenly frame, A light to shine upon the road That leads me to the Lamb! Where is the blessedness I knew When first I sought the Lord? Where is the soul refreshing view Of Jesus and His Word? What peaceful hours I once enjoyed! How sweet their memory still. But they have left an aching void The world can never fill. The dearest idol I have known, What’er that idol be, Help me to tear it from Thy throne And worship only Thee. So shall my walk be close to God, Calm and serene my frame; So purer light shall mark the road That leads me to the Lamb. William Cowper(1722) GREAT SELECTION OF CHRISTIAN BOOKS AT LOW PRICES • Apologetics • Bible Studies • Bibles • Bunyan’s Allegories • Catechism & Confessions • CDs • Children’s Activity Books • Children’s Bible Story Books • Children’s Devotionals • Children’s Fiction • Children’s History & Biography • Christian Living • Church Leadership & Preaching • Counselling • Devotional • Evangelism & Missions • Family & Parenting • Historical Fiction – for all ages • History & Biography • Journibles • Marriage • Men • Music • Resources for Teaching Children • Sacraments • Science • Theology • Theology Made Easy • Women Gift Certificates ReformedBookServices P R O M OT I N G G O D L I N E S S, R E V I VA L & R E F O R M AT I O N Faithfulness and Holiness: The Witness of J. C. Ryle By J. I. Packer This book is a newly repackaged and republished edition of J. I. Packer’s brief biography of the life of J. C. Ryle alongside the great preacher’s classic work, Holiness. Admiring Ryle’s passion for God’s Word, Packer aims to open up the life of this godly man for a contemporary audience. Readers new to Ryle’s work will especially benefit from a first encounter with his essay on holiness. Softcover, 272 pages, Crossway, RBS Price $19.50 Dinosaurs by Design By Duane T. Gish Children all over the world are fascinated by dinosaurs, but many books on dinosaurs are presented in a framework of evolution. This book teaches children about these marvellous creatures in a manner consistent with the biblical account of creation. Beautifully illustrated and filled with interesting facts, this book will give children a deeper appreciation for God and His wonderful creations. Hardcover, 88 pages, Master Books RBS Price $ $18.50 Held in Honour: Wisdom for Your Marriage from Voices in the Past By Various Authors Here are 50 devotional reflections on marriage, carefully selected from 2,000 years of church history by authors from the Early Church to Today. Alongside each historical quote is a brief introduction to the person quoted and an accompanying biblical reflection. Surprisingly fresh and practical! Softcover, 132 pages, Christian Focus Publications RBS Price $17.25 Portraits of Faith: What Five Biblical Characters Teach Us About Our Life With God By Joel R. Beeke We can best understand faith by seeing how it operates by the Spirit in the lives of fallen sinners like us. Accordingly, five Bible characters are chosen to show essential aspects of faith in the lives of Adam and Eve, the Shunammite woman, the Canaanite woman, and Caleb. Readers are challenged to ask: Do I have this kind of faith? Softcover, 115 pages, Reformation Heritage Books RBS Price $10.80 The Other Worldview: Exposing Christianity’s Greatest Threat By Peter Jones Our culture as a whole has switched worldviews. According to Jones, all the religions and philosophies of the world can be divided into two basic worldviews, which differ on the fundamental nature of reality. Is everything essentially one? Or does an irreducible distinction exist between creation and Creator? Find out by reading this book. Softcover, 251 pages, Kirkdale Press. RBS Price $17.25 In Canada: REFORMED BOOK SERVICES 230 Lynden Road, Unit 5A, Brantford, ON N3R 8A3 tel: 519.304.4709 • email: [email protected] www.reformedbookservices.ca • Store Hours: Monday 10-5; Thursday 10-9; Friday 10-5; Saturday 10-3 Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus through the Spiritual Disciplines By David Mathis Three seemingly unremarkable principles shape and strengthen the Christian life: listening to God’s voice, speaking to Him in prayer, and joining together with His people as the church. Though seemingly normal and routine, the everyday “habits of grace” we cultivate give us access to these God-designed channels through which His love and power flow--including the greatest joy of all: knowing and enjoying Jesus. Hardcover, 238 pages, Crossway RBS Price $17.25 Spreading the Feast: Instruction and Meditations at the Lord’s Table By Howard Griffith Spreading the Feast will help students to understand different facets of the Lord’s Supper and pastors to form their own words of explanation and exhortation as they minister at the Table. In this practical book for those who serve the Lord’s Supper, Howard Griffith provides an understanding of the sacrament and twenty-eight pastoral meditations that span both the Old and New Testaments. Softcover, 151 pages, P & R Publishing. RBS Price $17.25 USA Customers: REFORMATION HERITAGE BOOKS 2965 Leonard St. N.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49525 tel: 616-977-0889 • fax: 616-285-3246 email: [email protected] • www.heritagebooks.org april 2016 9 scripture READing: John 12 STUDIES IN JOHN (12) The Corn of Wheat BI BL E STUDY N o one likes to fall down. It’s often shameful, and can be hurtful. When Mary fell at Jesus’ feet and poured ointment over His feet, Judas thought it was a terrible waste. He never understood that when we lose ourselves, we gain; in giving to Christ, we are blessed; when we deny ourselves, we truly gain. This is the mystery of the Christian life. It is also the mystery of Christ Himself. Christ would not go on the way to His suffering and death without explaining this mystery. In the picture of the corn of wheat He unfolded to those who believe the mystery of His death on the cross for the salvation of His people. It falls into the ground and dies, that it might bring forth fruit. Mary’s Sacrificial Love Besides reminding us of the raising of Lazarus (v. 1, 9, 10), and the upcoming Passover (v. 1, 12, 20), the chapter opens with a picture of the Saviour in the company of Mary, a believing and loving disciple, and Judas, a thief and betrayer. John paints the picture with brilliant strokes of contrast. Christ eats with Lazarus, newly raised from the dead, while the religious rulers are consulting to kill Lazarus (v. 10). As Christ already said, they have come clearly “to steal, kill, and to destroy,” while Christ has come to give life. and that abundantly (John 10:10). Christ defended Mary against Judas, showing her action as preparation for His burial. Mary realized that He, who had taken Lazarus out of the tomb, would Himself take Lazarus’ place in the tomb. But she didn’t wait until the Saviour was in the tomb before she anointed Him. Of all those who had followed Christ, she seems to have been the only one who truly understood the significance of Christ’s death before the actual fact took place. She had truly sat at the feet of Jesus and learned the “one thing needful” (Luke 10:39, 42). 10 april 2016 “Let her alone.” The Saviour defended His child against the harsh treatment of Judas. This picture of Mary, Christ, and Judas is in essence a picture of how the true people of God live in the world. They are devoted to their Lord. They give Him their all, while the world and false disciples fail to understand this true love of God’s people, and even ridicule it. Christ’s Reign is Lowly If Christ explained what Mary was doing, Scripture would explain what Christ was doing when He came riding into the city of Jerusalem on a donkey greeted by the Hosanna cries of the people (vv. 12-14). After Christ was glorified, the disciples remembered that Scripture had prophesied in Zechariah 9:9: “Fear not, daughter of Sion, behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass’s colt.” Christ is the King, but not a king like many expect or want. Christ would not ride into Jerusalem in a chariot behind a military horse, thereby indicating a rule by sword and spear, military conquest, and bloodshed. He is a King, but His reign would be a reign of grace and righteousness, of service and sacrifice. Even Christ’s enemies are forced to admit this in verse 19: “The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, Perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? Behold the world is gone after him.” This was a powerful premonition that Christ’s victory is sure! Another powerful sign is the fact that “Greeks,” or Gentiles, are asking to see Jesus. Approaching Philip, they make a simple but beautiful request: “Sir, we would see Jesus” (v. 21). We might wonder what glory there would be in a few strangers asking to see Jesus. No doubt, it is a sign of His certain victory; yet only to those who believe. DR. G.M. BILKES Christ’s Sacrificial Love To all human appearances, Christ’s reign of grace is coming to a premature and sad end. It looks as if Christ is being judged and that His cause is a lost cause. It certainly doesn’t look like what He says is happening: “Now is the judgment of this world; now shall the prince of this world be cast out. And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me” (v. 31-32). In other words, Christ is saying here that rather than that He is being judged, it is the world and Satan that are being judged. They are judging themselves unworthy of the eternal life He is bringing. They think they are in the judgment seat judging Christ, but they are really condemning themselves by rejecting Him. Yes, He will die, but there will be fruit through His death. They have no anointing for their burial. They have no fruit in their death. It is exactly the opposite with Christ. Like a corn of wheat, He will fall into the ground and die. Listen to how He says it: “The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit” (v. 23). It’s true, there is a deep feeling of anguish that is troubling the soul of Christ (v. 27), and yet there is an unrelenting willingness and gladness to do what the Father has asked him to do. Christ tells us the secret of true discipleship: “He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal” (v. 25). God’s people may not run away from their task, even if it means sacrifice and trouble. At Christ’s announcement of His fruitful death, people hear what they think is thunder (v. 29). Instead, it is a voice from heaven, in answer to the prayer of Christ to the Father that He would glorify His name. We read: “Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again” (v. 28). Christ explained what the voice is saying. To put it in our own words: “World, watch out, and Satan, your judgment bell has tolled. Christ will be lifted up, that is to say, glorified in His death. People from all nations will come to Christ. Death will be a portal to true life, for here is the Resurrection and the life” (compare vv. 30-33). An Invitation to the Light In the last section of this chapter, John puts side by side things that we have trouble bringing together: God’s sovereignty (vv. 37-41) and human responsibility (vv. 44-50). It is hard to understand how it is that God blinds the eyes of people so that they don’t see, and thus understand and are converted (v. 40). God, however, doesn’t ask us to understand. He tells this to us in order to explain that when we do believe, it is His work. We have not made that difference ourselves. He has shined His light into our hearts. We need to live in His light, even when others refuse to do so. When others don’t believe, we need to simply leave that to God, who is over all. We need to follow God’s call to walk in the light, even if no one else does. That is what Abraham did when God called him; Rahab, the harlot, did so as well. They obeyed the call of God and came into the light, even though no one else did. God’s power in their lives was great and He made them great testimonies of His power! God calls us to believe on the light without questioning (v. 35; v. 46). In God’s way of dealing with us, there are times of light and darkness. If it were always light, we might imagine that there will always be light. The order of light and darkness, day and april 2016 11 TEACHING POSITIONS JORDAN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (near St. Catharines, Ontario) is a small but energetic JK-12 learning community nestled in the heart of Niagara wine country. As we seek to more fully serve in our community and add International students to our school population, we are receiving applications for teaching positions beginning September 2016. The successful applicants will be energetic and motivated team players who aim to inspire, are committed to a Reformed worldview, preparing students to meet the demands of our rapidly changing society. You will be comfortably versatile with technology and will bring skills that complement our present teaching team. If this describes you, we are interested in reviewing your application, including your resumé, a philosophy of education, and a statement of faith. All submissions will be carefully considered. Please send your application to the attention of Mr. Mark Fintelman at [email protected] PROVIDENCE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL, Monarch, Alberta. Fulltime Teaching Positions. Due to enrolment increases Providence Christian School is now accepting applications for a full-time teaching position in our grade 3 class, a full-time teaching position in our grade 4 class, a full-time position for a High School Social Studies, Math, Science Teacher, and a possible full-time position for a High School English Teacher, commencing August 15, 2016. We are looking for enthusiastic teachers who have a passion for Christian education. We encourage applications by qualified teachers who submit to God’s Holy Word, subscribe to the Reformed confessions, and are committed to educating children and youth for formation of a distinct Christian worldview. Providence Christian School is a growing Christian school in Monarch, Alberta. It is situated in a beautiful, southern, rural community, minutes from Lethbridge, and expects to begin utilization of its new gym and expanded facilities over the next year. It has grades K-12 with about 128 students and 10 staff members. PCS offers: a four-day school week, attractive working and living conditions, a growing, committed school community and a dedicated team of teaching staff. Suitable candidates are encouraged to electronically submit: a letter of application, a résumé containing three references, and a brief philosophy of Christian Education statement. For inquiries check out our website pcsmonarch.com or contact the principal, Mr. Hugo VanderHoek, [email protected], 403-381-4418. HERITAGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL, Jordan Station, Ontario invites applications for the following teaching positions for the 2016/2017 academic year: Elementary French Specialist Teacher and Secondary Science/Math Teacher. Heritage is located in the heart of Ontario’s beautiful Niagara Peninsula, has a student body of 630 students from K to 12, with a dedicated and supportive Reformed Christian community, a cohesive, professional faculty and staff of 60 persons, beautiful, modern facilities recently expanded and renovated. We seek qualified applicants who seek to serve Jesus Christ in the area of Christian education and who submit to Holy Scripture as confessed in the Reformed creeds, committed professionals who positively lead students to a life of dedicated service to our Lord, and who are enthusiastic, dedicated rookies or seasoned veterans looking for a positive change. How to join us: submit a résumé, with a statement of your philosophy of education, a statement of faith, and references, including one from your current pastor. Please forward inquiries and/or applications to: Mr. Brian C. Bosch, Principal, Heritage Christian School, 2850 Fourth Avenue, Box 400, Jordan Station, Ontario, Canada L0R 1S0; Phone (905) 562-7303; Fax (905) 562-0020; Email: [email protected]; Website: www.hcsjordan.ca “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord.” Ps. 127:3 12 april 2016 B ible Study Continued... Questions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. How are Mary and Judas pictures of different people’s relationships to the Saviour? What set Mary apart, even from the disciples? Why did Jesus enter Jerusalem riding on a donkey? What kind of a King does He show Himself to be? “Sir, we would see Jesus” (v. 21). What does this desire express? Can you relate to it at all? Explain what it means to see Jesus by faith now and by sight in the future. How does the picture of the corn of wheat (v. 24) describe Christ’s work and purpose? How does it direct us at the same time? Christ knew that His death would redeem people from every tribe, tongue, and nation. He speaks of drawing people to Himself. How are people drawn to Christ? (v. 32). What are some of the seasons of light there can be in our lives? (v. 36). What does it say about the heart of the Saviour that calls to faith in the light, and then hides Himself? night has a purpose in our world. When there is light, we need to make use of the light. It’s as if Christ is saying: “Don’t just imagine that it will always be there. Believe the light; benefit from the light, while it shines.” In the life of God’s children, there are periods of light and darkness. We are to drink in all the rays of the sun when we can, so that when the darkness comes, our hearts will still shine. That is what Isaiah did in His day. On one occasion, He saw the Lord high and lifted up (Isa. 6:1-2). John refers to this in verse 41 of our chapter: “He saw his glory and spake of him.” However, there was also a time when he said: “And I will wait upon the LORD, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him” (Isa. 8:17). The great difference between God’s children and the children of the world can be put like this: The children of the world don’t look for God, even in the light; God’s children look for God, even in the darkness. Dr. Gerald M. Bilkes is Professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology at Puritan Theological Seminary and a pastor of the Free Reformed Church of Grand Rapids, Michigan. B O OK REV I E W By Henk Kleyn The WHOLE CHRIST THE WHOLE CHRIST: Legalism, Antinomianism, and Gospel Assurance—Why the Marrow Controversy Still Matters by Sinclair Ferguson: Crossway Publications, 2016; Hardcover, 256 pages. Available at Reformation Heritage Books, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA and Reformed Book Services, Brantford, Ontario, Canada. Sinclair Ferguson is well known for his clear teaching and writing. This work is an outstanding example of the author’s gifts in bringing essential doctrines to the reader. I was one of those who, together with my brotherin-law, Jack Westerink (deceased), listened to ‘Ferguson’s Marrow tapes’ while travelling in the 1980s. The important questions of the role of the law, the gospel, and assurance of faith were topics of interest within our Reformed church culture at that time. As this book makes clear, the essential elements balancing the law and the gospel are still critically important in our time. Just reading the Endorsements and Foreword is enough to highlight the significance of this book. Every pastor, elder, and committed church member should read The Whole Christ. The question is often asked. “What relevance does the law have for Christians today?” This, and the question, “What is the proper balance between God’s grace and our works?” have been asked for centuries. Sinclair Ferguson teaches us that by using the lens of history, the doctrines of Scripture, and his experiences in pastoral ministry, the antidote for legalism on the one hand and antinomianism on the other is the liberating gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is in Christ that we are simultaneously justified by faith, freed for good works, and assured of salvation. The Chapter Titles are: 1. How a Marrow Grew 2. Grace in the Gospel 3. Preparation, Distortion, Poison 4. Danger! Legalism 5. The Order of Grace 6. Suspicious Symptoms 7. Faces of Antinomianism 8. Causes and Cures 9. The Marrow of Assurance 10. How Assurance of Christ becomes Assurance of Salvation 11. “Hindrances Strew All the Way” Perhaps a few excerpts will serve to convince Messenger readers to order and read the book. Page 92, in a section entitled Profession without Possession? the author explains “that by its very nature God’s grace finds the only reason for its exercise in God himself never in us. God did not choose his people because of what they were. But their sense of his gracious choice of them very subtly slid into an entitlement mentality that eventually dis-graced grace.” Can you relate to this? “The Church’s Confession of Faith remained unaltered. But it would be naïve scholarship that extrapolated from what was professed to what was preached and indeed from what was preached to what was possessed. Every pastor should know this and therefore never assume that everyone listening to him has been gripped by the wonder of God’s grace – even if they confessed the church’s creed.” Does this tension not remain in the Reformed church today – often a disconnect of the profession of faith from the actual experience of saving grace? From page 122, in a section discussing the order of grace and the role of the law as found in Romans 7:14, “For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.” Ferguson uses the analogy of the death of a spouse and remarriage, having quoted from John Owen’s discussion of the Christian’s legal disposition and inclination of heart to the way of the covenant of works, as they are never quite free of it in their best duties. “Many,” Ferguson writes, “in the second marriage (to Christ) may still be haunted by the memory of the former husband. There is only one remedy: to live in the awareness that the new husband abounds in more grace than the abusive husband did in condemnation. It is this that will produce what Thomas Chalmers famously described as ‘the expulsive power of a new affection.’ This is gospel Christology, gospel theology, and gospel psychology too.” From page 154 in the chapter, Faces of Antinomianism, the author summarizes, “At root then antinomianism separates God’s law from God’s person, and grace from the union with Christ in which the law is written in the heart. In doing so it jeopardizes not simply the Decalogue; it dismantles the truth of the gospel.” There is so much excellent teaching in this book on these relevant issues. One more brief quote – this from the conclusion, where Thomas Boston and Robert Murray M’Cheyne are described as having the special unction of the Holy Spirit in preaching and where the author is explaining the title of his book. “You may have encountered that expression before in its time-honored Latin form, Totus Christus. It goes back at least as far as Augustine. It is echoed by John Calvin when he tells us that Christ does not consider himself to be complete apart from us. It is language that stresses that our salvation comes to us from God the Father in Jesus Christ and through the Holy Spirit. This is salvation by grace alone, in Christ alone, through faith alone. It is Ephesians 1:3-14, Christ-centered, Trinity-honoring, eternityrooted, redemption-providing, adoption-experiencing, holinessproducing, assurance-effecting, God glorifying salvation.” This perspective of God’s graciousness in Christ is the marrow of divinity! Henk Kleyn is Vice-President for Operations at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary and a member of the Free Reformed Church of Grand Rapids, Michigan. April 2016 13 A GOODLY HERITAGE (25) Hendrik Pieter Scholte, Founder Of Pella, Iowa CHURCH HIS T O RY H endrik Pieter Scholte was the second minister to leave the Dutch Reformed Church, Hendrik De Cock being the first one to take this momentous step. At first, the two Secession ministers were strong allies, sharing a common vision for reforming the church of their fathers. However, soon after the Secession, serious doctrinal differences arose between them which resulted in such a serious controversy in the newly organized denomination that the Synod of 1840 decided to censure Scholte. He ignored this action and kept on preaching in congregations that supported him. For this and other reasons, he decided to leave the Netherlands and go to America with his followers, hoping to make a new start by organizing a church that was less dogmatic and free of man-made rules and regulations, From the beginning, Scholte set his sights on Iowa and he remained convinced that this was where the Lord was leading him. Even when Van Raalte, who had decided to settle in Michigan, tried to persuade him to join him there, Scholte would not change his mind. For him, Iowa was the ‘promised land,’ even before he had seen it. Prior to leaving, he and his people decided to jointly purchase eighteen sections of land (each containing 640 acres) as soon as they would reach their future home. Voyage and Settlement in Iowa In the spring of 1847, four ships loaded with nearly 900 emigrants, departed from Rotterdam, bound for Baltimore. The journey took fifty days and after losing nine passengers who died at sea, they arrived at their destination. Pastor Scholte and his family, not relishing the likelihood of having to endure the discomforts and dangers of a long journey in a slow sailing ship, had booked passage on a vessel with better accommodations, with the prospect of a much shorter voyage. They departed from Rotterdam to Liverpool via London, from where a steamship took them across the ocean in thirteen days to Boston. As previously arranged, Scholte joined his people in Baltimore, from where they all moved by train, canal boat, and riverboat to St. Louis. Most of the immigrants acquired temporary residences and jobs in St. Louis while Scholte and four members of the committee 14 april 2016 travelled to Iowa, where with the help of a local Baptist pastor, they looked for a suitable area to settle. At this pastor’s advice, Scholte’s party settled on the region between the South Skunk and Des Moines Rivers and purchased 18,000 acres in Marion County. This land was occupied by American settlers who held legal claims to it. But the Baptist minister was able to buy out these claims for Scholte and his party. Scholte, shrewd businessman that he was, managed to persuade the settlers to vacate their farms within one month and to include their unharvested crops, livestock and other inventories in the purchase price. Although he had no authority to do this without consulting his people still in St. Louis, it proved to be a wise decision. Within one week’s time the new settlers came into possession of a number of farms and many acres of very fertile, sprawling government land. All kinds of grains could be grown on it and the land was also excellent for raising cattle. This quick and impulsive action shows the kind of man Scholte was and gives us more than a hint as to what was likely to happen in the community under his leadership. Various Disappointments Scholte and his committee returned to St. Louis to lead a vanguard of about 600 Dutch pioneers to Marion County; the remaining immigrants would arrive the following spring. So far, the journey had cost them considerable sacrifice. Death had claimed twentyfour immigrants during the voyage from Rotterdam to St. Louis, 126 had died in St. Louis due to sickness, and three on arrival in Iowa. In their future home in Marion County anther big disappointment awaited the new settlers. Scholte had made arrangements to have fifty log cabins constructed for the future residents. But when they got there, all they found was a large number of boards that had been deposited on the site by the contractor. All they could do now was to hurriedly construct from these boards as many shelters as possible. Among those who were disappointed upon arrival at the place which would be their permanent home was Scholte’s wife. Expecting to be taken to a nice comfortable house, she ended up a tiny, rough log cabin! Mareah was Scholte’s second wife, and being a well- By Rev. C. Pronk, Editor educated and cultured woman who was brought up in high society circles in Europe, America, especially the hinterland of Iowa, was not an attractive environment for her. It was not an asset but rather a liability for Scholte to live in a colony under rather primitive conditions with a wife who loved music, painting and other forms of art. However, after the initial hardships of settling down were behind them, Scholte was able to offer her a reasonably comfortable life. He built her a stately home with a beautiful garden and rooms equipped with books and musical instruments, where Mareah could enjoy at least some cultural pleasures with her family and friends. This home can still be viewed in Pella, Iowa, at the time of this writing. Scholte’s Primary Reason for Settling in America Like his wife, Scholte also enjoyed some of the finer things of life, although for him these were not so important. He became quite well to do in America, but it was not material prosperity that had motivated him to undertake the long and difficult journey to the New World. His real and primary reason for going to America is expressed in the name he gave to this settlement: Pella. He chose this name partly to designate it as a place of refuge from the persecution and oppression he and his people had endured in the Netherlands. Pella was the city to which Christians fled before the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. For Scholte, however, more was involved here. Being a disciple of Darby he had become a dispensational pre-millenarian with an obsessive interest in prophecy. He was convinced that Europe, and especially the Netherlands, were under divine judgment. He believed that the persecution of the Seceders had brought God’s wrath upon the Dutch government and the apostate Reformed State Church. As Lubbertus Oostendorp explains, For him, North America offered shelter from the impending doom prophetically pronounced on all of Europe…. He considered Europe to be under the judgments pronounced in the Book of Revelation upon the Roman Empire. Moreover, the basic reason for this judgment was the effort of Rome and her successors to control the church. Thus from Constantine to King William I the earthly rulers had made themselves worthy of doom. But God would provide a ‘Pella’ for his people! And North America could be such a place because it was never part of the Roman Empire nor had it tried to control the church. North America was for Scholte the most blessed nation in the world. It was the most welcoming nation for refugees, especially religious refugees escaping oppressive governments and their established churches. What Scholte had already believed for a long time, namely that the state and the church should be completely separate institutions, was reality in America. It was enshrined in her Constitution! Many of his Secession colleagues continued to hold to the idea that the state should support, protect and favour the Reformed Church once it was restored to its original orthodoxy. Scholte wanted none of this. He had studied the era of Puritan theocracy in New England during the seventeenth century and rejected its notion of a virtual identification of church and state. He was determined that no such errors should be tolerated in his colony. Scholte’s View of a Biblical Church Not surprisingly, Scholte planned to organize the Pella church in a radically different way than he and his people had been accustomed to in the Netherlands. The Michigan churches, led by Van Raalte, had more or less been copies of the Secession churches. Even when they joined the Reformed Church in America (RCA), they continued to adhere to the basic Reformed structure with synods, classes and local consistories and their respective levels of authority. Scholte, having adopted independentism and congregationalism from Darby and others, was resolved to make a new start with the church in the colony, looking only to Scripture for guidance. Scholte was not interested in joining any of the many denominations in America, not even the RCA. Shortly after arriving in New York, he was cordially received by leaders of the RCA who april 2016 15 CH URCH HIS T O RY Continued... strongly urged him to affiliate with their denomination with which they shared so much doctrinally, confessionally, as well as culturally. Van Raalte had shown interest and later did join the RCA, but Scholte declined the offer on the grounds that he could not “reconcile [himself] with its synodical system.” Consequently, Scholte instituted a completely independent congregation which he called The Christian Church of Pella. Its church order would follow biblical principles rather than the Church Order of Dort, which he had never liked and had tried to change in the Netherlands. His new church order supposedly went back to the Apostolic Church of the first century, which, he said, had received the teachings of Christ who is the Head of the congregation. This church order, comprising Ten Articles, was signed by elders who had been trained by Scholte in the Netherlands and who were to officiate as preachers alongside their mentor. The governing task of these preaching elders, however, was largely left to these former students. Scholte was simply not interested in the nitty-gritty affairs of the congregation. He seldom attended consistory meetings and refused to get involved in strictly organizational and administrative aspects of the church. While most of the early settlers agreed with Scholte’s notion of an independent church, from the beginning there were some who opposed the idea. They wanted to affiliate with the RCA and they blamed Scholte for not accepting the invitation of that church. They formed a separate group, adopting the Church Order of Dort. When more likeminded settlers arrived from the Netherlands, they instituted an independent church under the name “The Holland Reformed Church.” Also from within the Christian Church of Pella there came increasing criticism of Scholte because of the many changes that were taking place under his leadership; changes not only in the church but also in the community. One thing that bothered many was Scholte’s determination to Americanize everything. He stressed the need for English in church and school and everyday life. Scholte’s Multi-Faceted Activities Scholte became fluent in English, which he used in business dealings and contacts with local and state government agencies. He joined the Democratic Party, but when their policies were not to his liking he switched to the Republicans. He even got involved in the slavery issue, writing a pamphlet in defense of the rights of states to maintain the institution. Later, when he ‘saw the light,’ he started to oppose slavery and got himself appointed as delegate to the Republican convention that nominated Lincoln as candidate for president. When Lincoln won the election, Scholte attended his inauguration. For many years Scholte remained a powerful ecclesiastical and political personality in the Pella community. He worked very hard to promote the spiritual and material wellbeing of his people, serving them as pastor, businessman, civil administrator, investment banker, land agent, notary, justice of the peace, and agent for the New York Life Insurance Company. In 1855 he started the Pella Gazette, an English-language newspaper for which he wrote articles promoting 16 april 2016 the settlement, but also editorials in which he expressed his strong and at times polarizing political views about contemporary issues. Scholte’s impressive involvement in every area of the settlers’ lives was not appreciated by everyone. At times, his actions resulted in bitter resentment and controversy. One of the most serious conflicts erupted in 1854. From the beginning, some critics within the colony had distrusted Scholte’s land and financial dealings. They accused him of paying too much for initial land claims and reselling them to the settlers at exorbitant prices. They also criticized him for not keeping accurate records of the funds of the association. These growing disagreements and suspicions ultimately resulted in Scholte’s suspension by his church, taking away his right to preach. This drastic action resulted in the resignation of Scholte. With a small band of followers he constructed his own church building where he preached until his death in 1868. Meanwhile, the original congregation invited Van Raalte to come from Holland, Michigan to help them join the RCA. Contrast Between Early and Later Years Scholte’s last years were very difficult as tensions continued to mount, not only between church members and their former pastor, but also between him and the community at large. Some of the criticism he received was probably unfair, but it became so widespread that there is no doubt that he deserves much of the blame for the deteriorating conditions in the colony. He had his followers to the end and it cannot be denied that he has done much good. There had been blessings on his preaching. Conversions did take place and a number of revivals broke out. Yet, most of these positive results occurred during the earlier years of his ministry. Why then did his ministry come to such a sad end? Just when and why it happened is difficult to say, but according to his biographer, Oostendorp, it was shortly after the end of the Civil War, when Scholte’s enthusiastic optimism about North America came to an end. The hope for an ideal American church had faded. He regarded North America as being full of pious frauds, and he called its preachers “ecclesiastical charlatans” and “clerical humbug.” America, after all, was no better than the rest of the world. With characteristic premillenarian pessimism, he mocked the New England experiment to establish the kingdom in this present age and in this world…. Scholte considered the whole church to be a bankrupt Babylonian confusion.” When the Michigan Seceders from the RCA adopted the name, True Holland Reformed Church (Ware Hollandse Gereformeerde Kerk), later Christian Reformed Church, and published their new publication, De Wachter, Scholte became livid, especially when the editor, Wilhelmus H. Van Leeuwen, signed off with the letters v.d.m. behind his name. Scholte wanted everyone to know that this acronym stood for ‘verleiders der menschen’ (deceivers of people). “We cannot conclude any different,” he said, “than that the denomination which deceives itself and others with the title ‘Ware Gereformeerde Kerk’ [True Reformed Church] represents the most wicked district in the contemporary Babylon, with its choking atmosphere destroying the spiritual life and hindering spiritual maturity in grace.” This rather bizarre statement of Scholte makes it difficult to believe that he had been one of the fathers of the Secession of 1834. While he continues to be honoured as such by many students of this movement, it should be realized that Scholte had been the “odd man out” (een vreemde eend in de bijt) among the Seceders, which helps to explain why there was so much strife during the early years of the Secession. What De Cock and other Seceders had in mind was nothing less than the restoration of the old Dutch Reformed Church as it existed after the Synod of Dort following its victory over Arminianism. That Church with its confessional standards and form of government had to be cleansed from all its corruptions introduced by King William I in 1816 and brought back to its pristine Reformed orthodoxy. Scholte disagreed with this approach. Right from the beginning he rejected the idea of re-adopting the Church Order of Dort in toto and suggested that substantial changes be made to it. As for the Three Forms of Unity, he was willing to live by them. But as time went on, he felt they were too restrictive, man-made and standing in the way of fellowship with other Christians. After moving to America, he ended up rejecting the whole system of binding church confessions and theological constructs. Looking back at what the Secession Church in the Netherlands stood for he wrote: The Holy Scriptures were my model and I have never been able to look to any ecclesiastical system in history whether for doctrine or structure, as my model of perfection. That’s why I have never been too concerend about the quia (because) and quatenus (in so far) in the form of subscription which minsters in the Reformed Church had to sign. My own secession was unavoidable, if I wanted to be faithful to the Lord who had put me in the ministry of the Word. But it would have been better for me to have simply kept on preaching, baptizing, maintaing fellowship with believers, breaking bread and prayers, instead of getting myself invoved with ecclesistical organizational matters. A Flawed Doctrine of the Church Scholte saw in the Secession’s determination to return to Dort and everything that name represented, a departurte from the simplitiy of the apostolic faith. Not that the Reformed doctrines as formulated at the Syndo of Dort were false, but because at best they represented a stage in the development of orthodox belief, Scholte refused to be locked in by seventeenth century theology. As he put it, “I never wanted to stay with Dordt but I knew with certainty that it had been engraved on my heart that I should press on to perfection and I was convinced that with Dordt that perfection had not been attained.” Perfection for him was being the bride of the Lamb, living in fellowship with the Lord and His people as a royal priesthood (1 Pet. 2:9). To belong to this royal priesthood believers must heed the call to forsake the false church, by which he meant not just the Dutch Reformed Church or the Roman Catholic Church, but all denominations that have departed from the apostolic faith and live by man’s wisdom rather than God’s, including the churches of the Secession. Observations and Evaluation We saw how towards the end of his life, Scholte also accused the True Holland Reformed Church of being the worst of Babylon’s districts. This bitter blast became the founder of Pella’s “swan song.” The same issue of De Wachter, which replied to his diatribe, carried the notice, “H. P. Scholte Is Dead.” A heart attack brought the end on August 25, 1868. With unusual charity a contributor dismissed Scholte’s bitter attack as not just accusing one churh, but due to “Scholte’s idea that all churches were Babylon.” The article expressed a debt of gratitude for what this father of the Afscheiding (Secession) had done in his better days. Various newspapers in North America and the Netherlands carried the news of his death, but it was clear that his words had already ceased to bear much weight. For many of his fellow citizens the contrast between his pious demeanour as a preacher on the one hand, and his ruthless behaviour as a wealthy banker and businessman seemed rather disingenuous. His stubborn character and self-centredness, combined with his economic independence, made him careless of his friends and colleagues. There is no evidence that he ever accepted correction or admitted he was wrong. Scholte’s influence, considerable at first, in the end has been minimal. In the Netherlands his views on the church, covenant and baptism may have contributed to the formation of Kuyper’s theology, although it is doubtful whether a direct link can be established between Scholte and the leader of the Doleantie. In America he enjoyed a meteoric rise in popularity, but like all meteors, his light also burned out rather quickly. Since he made no provision for a school to train future ministers and since he was not part of a denomination, it seemed that his direct influence ended with the early demise of the Scholte church in Pella. In the Netherlands he is still known and honoured for his contributions to the Secession of 1834, but the title father of the Secession rightfully belongs to De Cock, and not to Scholte. Sources: 1. Jacob Van Hinte, Netherlanders in America, Volumes 1 and 2. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1985. 2. Adrian Van Koevering, Legends of the Dutch. Zeeland, Michigan: Zeeland Record Co. Inc.: 1960. 3. Henry S. Lucas, Netherlanders in America, Dutch immigration to the United States and Canada, 1789 1950, Ann Arbor: The University of Michigan, 1955. 4. Lubbertus Oostendorp, “The Americanization of Hendrik Peter Scholte” in Perspectives on the Christian Reformed Church. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book House, 1983. april 2016 17 CAMPOUT/FREEZE-OUT FOR CAMP CANAAN: By God’s Hand By Nico Kattenberg; recapped by Eric Dekorte The Free Reformed Foreign Mission Committee challenged the denomination’s youth groups to raise funds that were still needed to send children in Cubulco, Guatemala to Camp Canaan, a week-long summer camp. This challenge was enthusiastically embraced by the youth group of Fenwick, Ontario. What follows is an enthusiastic report by one of the youth group’s members, Scott Dekorte, in collaboration with Nico Kattenberg, Free Reformed mission worker in Guatemala, who oversees this project. Editor. Sparking an Idea It only takes a spark to get a fire going! That spark ignited one evening at a monthly board meeting of the Young People’s Society of Zion Free Reformed Church of Fenwick as we discussed how our youth group could help cover the $3,910.00 deficit in the Free Reformed International Missions budget for Camp Canaan. Our idea was to organize a cold weather campout in the middle 18 april 2016 Mission Board and Church Support By God’s hand, we were supported and encouraged by our local church and the Free Reformed Mission Board. Support from parents and chaperones made the event run smoothly. Even the weather cooperated, creating perfect conditions. It snowed just days and even hours before the event began, which paved the way for a frozen and clean bush campsite. The temperature dropped to -15° C on the day of the event. By God’s hand, people began arriving at the campsite at 6:00 pm. on Friday, February 12. The “heat” leading up to the event had become a reality and there seemed to be an electric atmosphere as campers settled in to their tents and huddled near the fire. Everyone was welcomed, which was then followed by singing the great hymn of faith, “It Is Well” in Spanish and listening to a short campfire message. Rev. Henk Bergsma, pastor of the Fenwick congregation, urged the youth to kindle a warm heart through the Spirit, in relationships, for the future, and in service to God. of the winter, sponsored by friends and family, in an effort to raise funds for Camp Canaan. The idea became a flame. By God’s hand, the entire Fenwick youth group was all hands on deck. We soon extended the event, hosted at a local woodlot in Fenwick to all the youth of the Free Reformed congregations in southern Ontario. Youth from a number of local United Reformed and Canadian Reformed churches were soon also adding fuel to the flame. The event spread like wildfire and soon we were expecting 120 campers for the evening. Activities Needing to get out some energy, we played “The Game” and telephone charades. Skating on the constantly cracking ice followed. Despite the hole in the ice, it was mostly safe. Pizza was a welcome sight at 11:00 pm and everyone began to settle by the warmth that the fire offered. A sense of camaraderie and pleasure was felt, knowing the event served a greater purpose than just fun time. Stories, marshmallows and laughter were shared all through the night. The few hours of sleep were welcomed and were felt as too short. Most of us slept in the partially heated greenhouse plastic tents. Others slept around the campfire, huddled together to keep out the penetrating cold. The cold that was biting the exposed noses of the campers was the morning alarm to get the campers april 2016 19 to the heated shop for breakfast at 7:30 am. The temperature had dropped to -25° C overnight! We got what we wished for … a Freeze-out! Bacon, eggs and hot coffee thawed out the cold noses, toes and cheeks. Tugof-war and the human knot were played while eyes drooped with exhaustion. A few group pictures were taken and the cleanup began. Many hugs and farewells followed among the campers who had strengthened relationships throughout the weekend. Hamburgers for lunch were the perfect send-off after a great weekend. 20 april 2016 aldeas. The hope is that during their time at camp, the children and youth will experience Christ in a real way and that when they return to their communities they will become active participants in the local church. The cost for sending each child to camp is Q400 ($50), which will cover transportation, food, lodging, and staffing.” Photos by Christine Otten and Mike Zwiep Amazing Result! Campout/Freeze-out was accomplished only through the Lord’s guiding hand and protection. The 126 campers far exceeded our expectations and the event ran smoothly. The final amount raised was $14,357.00! What a blessing to be able to raise that much! Our initial goal was to cover the budget deficit of the mission project, but this amount covers much more. It costs about $50 to send one child to camp. This amount is equivalent to about 287 kids experiencing Camp Canaan. We are so thankful for the many sponsors and campers who made this event possible. Ultimately, God is due the praise for His guiding hand and faithfulness in spreading His Word and accomplishing His tasks. What is Camp Canaan? Camp Canaan is an AMG supported camp that seeks to bring the Gospel to children in Guatemala and to have fun activities at the same time. In a typical year, 2,500 children are sent for a week-long trip for Bible studies in small groups, with educational activities, bonfires, crafts, swimming, games, singing, and time for the campers to be alone with God. Many have professed faith in Christ during this time and it is considered by the campers to be one of the best times of their lives. The children return home ready to serve and use their talents for God’s glory. “FRMI hopes to send 40 to 50 children and youth from Cubulco to Camp Canaan this summer during the week of July 1115. These children and youth come from the town of Cubulco and also from several THE OXFORD REFORMED CHRISTIAN SCHOOL MUSIC DEPARTMENT PRESENTS ANTONIO VIVALDI’S GLORIA AND VARIOUS ANTHEMS & VIVALDI’S “SPRING” from the FOUR SEASONS Friday, April 22 and Saturday, April 23 at 7:30 p.m. Knox Presbyterian Church 59 Riddell St., Woodstock, ON Tickets $20.00 per person Reserve today ORCS: 519.485.1142 Email: [email protected] Performed by ORCS CHAMBER CHOIR CHAMBER ORCHESTRA LAURINDA BEIMERS, SOPRANO JENNIFER ENNS MODOLO, ALTO Conducted by JOHANN VAN ITTERSUM april 2016 21 The Gracious Shepherd The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Word & deed Ministries seeks to help needy people in the developing world by bringing aid in the name of Jesus Christ. projects focus on... > the Gospel > Indigenous partnerships > self-sufficiency > sponsor a child, joIn a Business Group, Learn More by Visiting... www.wordanddeed.org Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. contact us: can: 877.375.9673 usa: 866.391.5728 e: [email protected] Serving God, Bridging Communities, Renewing Lives Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. CHILDREN’S BIBLE CURRICULUM FOR VBS & OUTREACH Complete Curriculum on CD • Suitable – for your church’s needs. • Adaptable – to various age groups. • Printable – in any way or format you like. • Usable – a total of seven 5-day themes. Five-Day Lesson Themes Through the Bible • Beginnings • Children In the Bible • Loving God (The Ten Commandments) • Jesus Saves • Miracles in the Bible • Parables in the Bible • The Gospel Is Spread Seven different themes are arranged into 5-lesson modules, which may be printed as is or modified to suit your outreach program. Three Levels of Workbooks • Beginners (ages 4 – 6) • Primaries (ages 7 – 9) with 2 levels of activities • Juniors (ages 10 - 12) INCLUDES * Complete Instructions • Handbook for Planning • Teachers’ Manual with Crafts FREE REFORMED PUBLICATIONS 18 Chapala Crescent S.E. Calgary, AB T2X 3M4 Canada • Email: [email protected]; Tel. 403-254-6591 Website: www.frcna.org 22 april 2016 Heritage Spring Retreat All those 18 – 35 are invited to join us! Speakers: Rev. M. Kelderman Rev. M. Kuivenhoven Sye Ten Bruggencate Rev. D. Overbeek REGISTER @ WWW.HERITAGERETREAT.CA Register before April 25, 2016 = $200/person | Late Registration $225/person Position: Professor of Biblical Studies Position Focus: Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary (PRTS) is seeking a full-time Professor of Biblical Studies. In collaboration with the President, Academic Dean, Faculty, and the Director of the Doctoral Program, the person filling this position will help assist and facilitate the PhD program in Biblical Studies at PRTS. The person filling this position will contribute to the academic and spiritual formation of doctoral students, as well as international collaborative research projects and scholarly publications. This position is a unique opportunity to collaborate with a dedicated team consisting of the current faculty, a variety of adjunct professors and instructors, research institutes, and the Director of the Doctoral Program in order to help build a blended- learning doctoral program. The person filling this position will not only be extensively involved in teaching and dissertation supervision, but is also expected to participate in academic conferences, departmental planning, committee work, and a local expression of Christ’s church. Essential duties 1) Teaching PhD and ThM level graduate courses; 2) supervising or co-supervising doctoral dissertations; 3) leading or facilitating research projects; 4) producing scholarly publications; 5) participating actively in the church and international academy. Required education and experience 1) Pastoral and preaching experience; 2) holding an appropriate PhD degree from an accredited school; 3) expertise in the original languages of Scripture; 4) experience in teaching, research, and publications; 5) experience in supervising theses and dissertations; 6) demonstrated experience of working independently and collaboratively with varied groups (faculty, researchers, etc.) within an international organization; 7) knowledge of current developments in digital research, distance education, and online publications; 8) demonstrated knowledge of faculty committee work. Required ethos: Committed in doctrine and practice for the preparation of students to serve Christ and His church through biblical, experiential, and practical ministry. Formal subscription to the Reformed Standards of the Three Forms of Unity and the Westminster Standards. Inquiries and CVs are to be directed to Dr. Michael Barrett, VP for Academic Affairs. [email protected] by May 5, 2016. Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, 2965 Leonard St NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 USA april 2016 23 AnnouNcements a n n i v ersar y 1966 March 25 2016 With praise and thankfulness to the Lord for His lovingkindness, we rejoice with our parents and grandparents, DURK and WILLY BRUINSMA a n n i v ersar y April 29, 1966 – April 29, 2016 With thankfulness to the Lord, we rejoice with our parents, HENRY & MARIE DRIESSE obituary on the occasion of their 50th Wedding Anniversary Joyce & Jake Boekee Ingrid & David Zekveld John & Rachel Bruinsma Alan & Candice Bruinsma Brian & Martina Bruinsma Lorne & Amanda Bruinsma and 36 grandchildren Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a Light unto my path. Psalm 119:105 Home address: 9 Johnson St. RR#7 Brantford, ON N3T 5L9 SUBMITTING PICTURES ELECTRONICALLY Please note that to meet the standards of printing, any pictures sent electronically have to be scanned in high resolution, at least 300 dpi (dots per inch) and should be in jpg format. For questions, please contact: [email protected] 24 April 2016 as they celebrate 50 years of marriage on April 29th, 2016. But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 Much love from their children and grandchildren: John & Claudia Driesse Kevin Shaun John & Laura Prol Sophia Christiana Isabella Steve & Anita Mol Jacob Thomas Savannah Joseph Samuel Mariska Miriam Andrew & Michele Slootmaker Shepherd Michael & Nicolette Driesse Juliet Henry Amanda Driesse Home Address: 83 West End Ave. Pompton Plains NJ, 07444 USA Email: [email protected] Ryan Charles DeGroot June 27, 1993 - December 18, 2015 “I know that whatever God does, it shall be forever. Nothing can be added to it, and nothing taken from it. God does it, that men should fear before Him.” Ecclesiastes 3:14 The Lord took to Himself our beloved son, brother and uncle on December 18, 2015. Ryan had many health issues throughout his life, and his battle is now over. He is with Jesus! Praise the Lord! We loved him so much and we will always miss him. Family Clayton and Jackie DeGroot Clinton and Bri-Anna DeGroot Heidi and Travis Gebbink - Ashton, Arwen, Ryden Laura and Jeff Tolsma - Brandon, Mason Jeff and Nicole DeGroot - Quinn, Kelly Jenna DeGroot Grandparents Simon and Henny DeGroot Dave and Susan Zylstra Lovingly remembered by MANY, MANY Aunts, Uncles and Cousins The Funeral was held on December 22, 2015 at the College Heights SDA church with Pastor Scott Dibbet officiating. Home Address: Clayton and Jackie DeGroot, 5646 53rd Ave. , Lacombe, Alberta T4L 1L3